Qatar University (QU) has signed a wide-ranging Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft to collaborate on AI-driven learning solutions, leading research tools, and foundational digital infrastructure, a statement said.
The agreement, inked on the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress Doha 2025 Conference, outlines a shared vision to accelerate QU’s transformation into a digitally-empowered academic institution equipped for the future of higher education.
This collaboration supports Qatar’s national priorities for nurturing advanced digital capabilities, investing in research excellence, and cultivating technology-ready talent for tomorrow’s workforce.
Dr Omar al-Ansari, president of QU, said: “This collaboration with Microsoft reflects our commitment to equipping our academic community with advanced digital tools and laying the groundwork for innovative teaching, scientific inquiry, and operational agility. It reinforces QU’s role as a national driver of knowledge creation and a regional center for digital advancement.”
Ahmad El Dandachi, general manager of Microsoft Qatar, said: "By integrating AI powered tools across teaching and learning, we’re equipping students with the practical skills they’ll need to lead in a digital economy—while preserving the human centered values of education.”
The MOU encompasses four principal collaboration areas: AI for Teaching, Learning and Academic Enhancement: The parties will explore deploying Microsoft’s M365 Copilot ecosystem to assist with instructional design, content creation, and personalised learning support. The goal is to introduce practical, human-centered AI tools that elevate academic productivity and advance modern learning practices throughout the university community.
Strengthening Research Capabilities and Innovation Output: QU and Microsoft will work to expand the research ecosystem through access to AI platforms, HPC resources, and cloud-based scientific tools. The collaboration also includes planning for a new AI Lab that will support applied research, digital experimentation, and interdisciplinary partnerships.
Transforming Infrastructure through Azure-Driven Cloud Modernisation: The agreement outlines a framework for migrating key university systems and services to the Azure environment, enabling enhanced scalability, faster digital service delivery, and improved technical resilience. This transformation will create a flexible foundation for future data-driven initiatives and institutional growth.
Driving Internal Innovation with No-Code/Low-Code Development: Through Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics, the partnership will support the rapid creation of digital solutions, applications, and AI-enabled services. This approach empowers internal teams to develop, iterate, and deploy tools more quickly in response to evolving academic and administrative needs.